If your business operates in Tacoma, Washington, now is an excellent time to take advantage of the energy and water efficiency rebates offered by Tacoma Public Utilities (TPU). These rebate programs are designed to reduce operational costs for commercial properties while supporting sustainable practices across HVAC systems, lighting, kitchen equipment, irrigation, and more. Below is a comprehensive overview of the key rebates currently available, including eligibility requirements, rebate amounts, and application guidelines.

1. Commercial Kitchen Rebates

Tacoma Water provides up to $2,000 per account annually for ENERGY STAR-certified commercial kitchen products. This program is open to both customer and contractor-installed equipment, with a limit of one rebate per account each year for up to four products.

Eligible kitchen equipment includes:

• Steam Cookers – Rebates range from $100 to $200 depending on the model and size.
• Ice Machines – Rebates range from $150 to $500, with larger and more efficient machines earning higher amounts.
• Combination Ovens with Steam Cooking – Rebates range from $100 to $200 based on capacity.
• Dishwashers – Rebates range from $100 for under-counter models to $300 for multi-tank conveyor types.

To qualify, all products must appear on the EPA’s ENERGY STAR list, and the account must be an active, non-residential Tacoma Water customer. Applications must be submitted within 90 days of installation.

2. Smart Irrigation Controller Rebate

Water conservation is a major focus for TPU. Businesses and multifamily properties can receive a rebate of 50% (up to $500) on the purchase of WaterSense-labeled smart irrigation controllers and compatible plug-in devices.

Key features of smart controllers include:

• Weather-based watering adjustments
• Remote access via smartphone apps
• Improved efficiency by reducing overwatering

Rebate conditions:

• Eligible devices must appear on the EPA’s WaterSense product list.
• Rebate applies to both self-installed and professionally installed systems.
• Only one rebate per business account is allowed, and the application must be submitted within 90 days of installation.

3. HVAC Rebates

Tacoma Power offers generous rebates for energy-efficient HVAC upgrades.

Programs and rebates include:

• Ductless Heat Pumps – $1,000/ton for retrofits from electric resistance systems; $300/ton for other upgrades.
• Air Source Heat Pumps – $1,000/ton for retrofits and $150/ton for upgrades.
• Connected (Wi-Fi) Thermostats – $150 for electric heat applications; $50 for air conditioning only.

Efficiency requirements vary by product type and installation scenario. Applications must be submitted within 180 days of installation.

4. Additional Equipment Rebates

Businesses can also benefit from rebates on other facility upgrades:

• Refrigeration Case Door Retrofits – $300/linear foot (vertical), $100/linear foot (horizontal)
• Window Retrofits – $10/square foot for qualifying window upgrades
• Standby Generator Block Heaters – $400 for units <3kW, $1,500 for units ≥3kW

Check the specific equipment requirements outlined in Tacoma Power’s rebate forms to confirm eligibility.

5. Commercial Lighting Rebates

Efficient lighting systems remain one of the fastest ways to cut energy costs. Tacoma Power offers the following incentives:

• TLED Lamps – $2 per lamp
• LED Exit Signs – $20 per unit
• Small Business Projects (Rate B) – $0.19 per annual kWh saved, up to 100% of project cost
• General Business Projects (Rate G) – $0.17 per annual kWh saved, up to 60% of project cost

Important: All lighting projects must be approved before installation. Equipment must be DLC or ENERGY STAR certified.

6. Custom and New Construction Incentives

Businesses planning major renovations or new builds can earn:

• $0.20 per annual kWh saved for projects exceeding Washington State Energy Code standards.
• Custom incentives are available for HVAC, water heating, building envelope, and mechanical systems.

Important: Pre-approval is required for all custom and construction projects.

Final Thoughts

Tacoma Public Utilities offers a robust suite of business rebate programs designed to help commercial and multifamily property owners reduce operational costs, upgrade equipment, and improve sustainability. Whether you’re installing smart irrigation systems, upgrading to ENERGY STAR kitchen appliances, or retrofitting your lighting and HVAC systems, these rebates can significantly offset your investment and support your energy and water conservation goals.

For more information, contact Incentive Rebate360 today to get expert guidance tailored to your project. Let us help you take full advantage of the savings offered through Tacoma Public Utilities’ business rebate programs. To speak to one of our rebate recovery specialists, call 480-653-8180, email [email protected], or schedule a call that fits your needs by clicking the button below!